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24 May 2010

Never say Never

Never use the selvage when sewing, I was always taught. [The selvage is that fuzzy edge of your fabric, or the part that has the color numbers printed, or has tiny holes down the side.]

That particular sewing lesson didn't stick, which is sometimes just as important of a lesson: be willing to take a chance and think creatively when sewing, or doing anything for that matter.

I made this skirt using an Oliver + S pattern. I bought it for the accompanying jacket, which I've made twice, for two different baby dills, but never made up the skirt. I enjoy not feeling confined by a pattern, but sometimes I don't want to think that hard. You've been there, right?

The other day [once again after I had gone through all the girls' clothes realizing Divine was in need of something for Sunday] I pulled out this skirt pattern. If you're not familiar with Oliver + S, I tell you it's a good place to start if you're wanting to use patterns. They even have a couple of free patterns on their blog if you're the type who won't commit. I justify the price because I make it more than once in different sizes [you can either just cut your fabric under the pattern, or trace the size you want on freezer paper to be able to use the pattern multiple times.]

I like to use them because they overlook no detail. For example, instead of having you do two pockets for this skirt, there is just one panel that goes across the front and you sew a line to create the pocket. Genius. There's also a kick-pleat in the back that they have you cut out on the fold. Also genius.

Changes: I only put the elastic in the back portion of the waist casing so it wouldn't gather in the front. Also, they do tend to run shorter than my preferred length. I always forget this when I sew one up [remember I have a bad memory--isn't there an herb for me out there?]. That's where the selvage from the contrasting fabric comes in. Stretchy, two-tone, iridescent, pleated, with a little fringe. What more could a girl want?

when I had my 3rd daughter I decided any pattern was worth investing in, because I would be making dresses anyway. I spent $100 + on patterns by the time my oldest was 5. Now I don't use all those same patterns. But it is very logical to do, the basics always come through, you can do about anything with them!